Don Adams

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Alternative Title:
Donald James Yarmy

Don Adams, (Donald James Yarmy), American actor and comedian (born April 13, 1923, New York, N.Y.—died Sept. 25, 2005, Los Angeles, Calif.), portrayed the bumbling Maxwell Smart, Agent 86, in 138 episodes of the television spy-spoof series Get Smart (1965–70) and in a subsequent feature film, made-for-TV movie, and another, short-lived series. He employed a number of ludicrous gadgets, including a dial phone hidden in his shoe, and with his nasal voice and clipped delivery, he gave the public such catchphrases as “Sorry about that, Chief,” “Missed it by that much,” and “Would you believe…?” He won three Emmy Awards (1967–69). Adams was also the voice of the title character in the Inspector Gadget cartoons.